LOVE all the interaction in the comments and all the support for me, personally, as well as the basement builder community! For the record, I don't consider ZMAN an enemy, they have every right to defend their patents - no question at all. Whether its a good use of corporate time and money???... that's up to them to decide. There's also been a number of comments regarding "personal use" vs "selling". ZMAN gave me no caveat to the infringement - their instruction to me was to "destroy" the patented equipment. I believe they offered no caveat because of patent law 35 U.S.C. § 271, which states: Anyone who makes, uses, offers to sell, or sells any patented invention domestically, or imports a patented invention into the United States during the term of the patent, is infringing the patent. "Makes" and "uses" are included but separate from "offers to sell" or "sells"... legal opinion states that distinction covers personal make/use. Hope this helps!!
Very interesting. Thanks for doing the research. I still don't see how a company can prevent someone from making something for their own personal use. That seems wrong to me.
They do this as scare tactics. Patents are tricky but can be easily modified to where they don't own a patent on the modification. When you patent something it's specific unless you pay to patent every modification you can do which costs upwards in the millions when you patent all potential designs existing from an original design. Also most patents expire in like 7 years.
Yep Zman has a world wide patent on the chatterbait connection and blade. Here in Australia all of us were warned over this issue and yes many makers over here ceased making chatterbaits. So where there is a need to keep a good bait in your lineup. invention is the mother of neccessity. So what did i do i went this way Adam. I now flatten out a Colorado blade and drill my 2 tow holes in the middle of the blade. Now keeping the original hole in place i extended the neck wire and reattached my blade to it. Now i have copper gold silver blades as well as painted finishes. I called my baits "Jumping Jacks" after the landmines the Australian Army uses. Now i tie long rabbit fur zonkers in as a body and attach a rattle as well. Remember you only have to change things up by 15% to beat any design patent. I hope you guys find merit in my chatterbait design and corrections. I also must thank Z man for making me more creative in design of my products.
It's not really a worldwide patent. Evergreen Jackhammers are much cheaper in Japan because Zman isn't getting a cut. If you can find a Japanese retailer that'll ship to you, it's a lot cheaper to just import from Japan. A lot won't ship to you though because Zman has their patent trolls around.
Shimreels in Singapore sells Japanese lures to the internet angling public. I have ordered from them plenty of times and the best thing for you Stateside boys is they do all their pricing in U.S. dollars.
Nice build Adam. Since you are no longer able to use coffin style blade and no longer able to use the word “chatter”, I have decided that I should no longer use ANYTHING ZMan. You are Da Man!!!
Well I appreciate the support! At the end of the day, they were just exercising their rights, although I’m not sure it’s all that cost effective to go after little guys. I would think their time and money would be better spent elsewhere, but what can ya do!?
@@SDGCustomLurecraftso Adam I know were you come from but there is alot of you could do to stand up for your self I think this little over reach on zman part yo be honest. I am like the other viewer will not be buying any thing from this because they had sue 2 other company when they should let it go
Z-MAN has done this to every single company/bait maker for the direct blade to jig connection. It's one of the reasons I will not buy a single chatterbait that they make or buy their products. Not a fan of them having a monopoly on bladed jigs that have that direct connection. On another note, those were so BEAUTIFUL laminates! Well done!
WOW those colors are SICK my man!!!! Love them and very unique to what's out there! I want some! "Flicker" is a great alternative! Sounds more glamorous!
I started attaching bills to jig-heads back in about 1985. I submitted my idea to American Inventors corporation. They told me it would cost anywhere from 5 to 20k to do a patent search. Back then I was working for 3 35 an hour and was raising a family so I had a notary sign my drawings and description and left it alone. About 2 years later, Cabela's started offering what they called an oscillating jig head. It's a plastic bill that snaps onto jig heads. You have to position the bill upside down/ bill up, and it works great. I also put a small pen light in the butt of a translucent fishing pole and dipped the tip in glow in the dark. I've never made a dime but I had fun.
Adam, I love them all! They definitely look like some fish catchers for sure. You do an outstanding job my friend. Just keep doing your thing! I appreciate you and what you do!!
LOVE the Ghost Trout! It's up there as one of my favorites!!! I wouldn't worry too much about Z-Man. They would need to prove in a court of law that your sales are causing them significant financial harm in order for anything bad to happen. Don't be afraid of nasty letters. Unless it is a cease and desist from a law firm you don't have anything to worry about. And seriously, the PRESIDENT of Z-Man doesn't have anything better to do than harass small bait makers? ROFL business must not be going very well for them HA HA HA.... Go run your business buddy!
Couldn’t believe it myself… his time has to be worth more than what it took to send and respond to my emails! Go figure… cost benefit analysis seems a little wonky, LOL! Water under the bridge at this point. Re: the Ghost Trout - ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC! Stellar color, especially with that Monkey Milk belly! Thx man!!
You guys are absolutely right! I got a surprise 5g of Solar Sugar in the mail the other day 😁 going to play with that tonight. @baitchuckin see you too if you're live later. Great stuff guys. I'm blessed to have found this community.
@@bfstackledirect While I agree 100% to ALWAYS contact a lawyer, as I am not one myself, I do not believe this to be poor advice. I speak as someone who has been in multiple corporate lawsuits over patent infringements (On both sides) and I speak as someone who is on over 20 patents myself. Bose did a similar scare tactic a while back legally going after several companies supposedly infringing on their active noise cancelling patent. Turns out it was a big cash grab and most cases did not rule in their favor. But all it takes is one. Any company can legally stop you from producing infringing product, that's not in question. What they can't do is outright sue you for lots of money. All they can sue for is damages lost by the sales of the infringing product and the "potential revenue" they would have gained if you had not infringed on their product and marketing. Z-Man is a multi-million dollar company and it would take A LOT of chatterbait sales by our good friend Adam here to put any kind of dent in that, and it would be very hard for them to prove any kind of significant damage to their revenue as a result of sales from a garage bait maker. Threatening letters from the president of a company are just that, threatening letters. Unless it's a legal and notarized cease and desist letter, Adam really doesn't need to do anything. That's the first step in a legal process to go after patent infringements. I should also note that if Z-Man were a public company, this could actually be used AGAINST the president as it's their Fiduciary Duty to focus on keeping the company profitable. Writing multiple emails to youtube baitmakers around the world is an absolute waste of time for a president of a multi-million dollar corporation and it is NOT a valuable use of time for the president of said corporation. This is what you hire legal teams for. If it was a real threat, the letters would be coming from the legal team, not the president directly. Pretty sure ANY corporate lawyer would highly encourage the president of a company to NOT CONTACT directly the person you're trying to sue in a court of law. Again, I'm not a lawyer, but just speaking as someone who has been through the process before and in cases that involved large sums of money. Again I agree with you 100% confirm with your lawyer, because this is not legal advice..
My biggest takeaway from this was getting to see the new Barlow powder paint colors! I don't pour soft plastics but make a lot of bucktail jigs. Those new colors are something else. I order a lot of stuff from Barlow's so it is really cool to see some of the barlow products in action.
Suuuuuuper helpful video and patent discussion. I've been wanting to start making "bladed jigs" for a bit now, and was trying to sort it all out. Looks like flat eye jig connected with a split ring is the way to go. Thanks, and great work!
Glad you enjoyed it! Yeah, split ring connection is a must if you want to avoid the drama, and now we also know about the blade shape (but there's a lot of good alternatives out there, especially in the normal size). I hope it works out well for you!
I cannot believe what I just witnessed. You have the ability to make all your baits and create whatever you want. WOW!!!!! Do you uy the molds? I sub'd and this was just amazing......
Thank ya much, glad you enjoyed it! Yup, I bought all the molds (lead and soft plastics). Epic Bait Molds is best of the best for soft plastic molds - love em!
Seems ridiculous for them to be worried about a " basement bait maker" especially when there's only so many things one can do when making baits. That aside, awesome baits and color matching as always. Keep up the good work!
Sorry to hear about your talk with Z Man. I didn't know about the Blade design either. The Heads look good and the baits are fantastic!!! Great video as always.
"flicker minnow" **Berkley has entered the chat** You may want to re-re-workshop that name, sir, but that's an awesome little bait! I'd bet the gold/pearl and the blue back shad would smash some white bass 🎣
Need one of the flickers with a purple top and chartreuse belly with that same jig head you made for the last one. Would be killer looking and also killer at catching dandies!!
This is the best bait that I've seen. I've used Zman and personally didn't like their plastic bait as it sticks together, especially the tail part. Your jighead will also be good to make it weedless, just an option. Would love to buy from you.
You are still the wizard of the best color combos. Hope all is good with z- man. I'm looking forward to seeing these in action because these are going to have a lot of fast action. Be blessed. My friend.
on Relapse Tackle's channel he drills out little holes to insert small neodymium magnets to keep and hold the hooks in place. so they don't fall out or reposition.
@SDGCustomLurecraft That last bladed jig color combo with the purple colored jig head was hands down ONE SEXY LOOKING BAIT!!! Keep up the awesome bait making! -Tight Lines 🎣
Well, all three laminates looked fantastic!...the lures by themselves are great baits, adding blade would be non-essential. ;) BTW, when some specials hook type/make needed are not available, one could find a regular suitable hook and diy and add the required hook-eye form. There should be some videos on this procedure on youtube. All the best
I wonder how Strike King got away with the direct blade to head connection on their "Thunder Cricket" bladed jigs... I bet it has something to do with the size of the company and the size of their coffers.
Appreciate the support! I try not to hold it against them... I mean, they do have a right to defend their patent, big or small infringers alike! I don't know if it makes business sense to spend the money going after basement builders, but that's their call!
I agree. They have every right to defend their patent. Us consumers also have every right to boycott big name companies that seem to have too much time on their hands... I know that I will never buy anything with that company name ever again... No loss to me. I can make whatever I want. Thank you for all the great content you put out. Much appreciated here!
Another great build. I know of a few folks that got emails and letters about bladed jigs they built. 🙄. I love that Monkey Milk on laminates. I only make for myself so you can send me them small blades and I won’t tell. 😂
It always amazes me how the angling AI molds open up and the sprue is gone. That's pretty amazing no wonder they charge so much for their molds they get rid of the sprue for you
I don't know about Angling AI as I don't own any, but I do like to clean up my whole work area, which includes the sprue, before I open my EPIC Bait Molds!
It’s only an issue if you sell them (or even give them away for free). If you make them for your own personal use there’s NOTHING Z-Man can do legally. I definitely wouldn’t throw anything away.
Not for nothing man but if you're not selling them then there's no infringement. I hope by "throw away" all those other components you mean "put away" because you can still make them for personal use. Also I think the SK Cricket or Slobberknocker technically doesn't attach to the head because of the design, they won in court, but it definitely connects to the head in function. Keep at it brother, stand firm!
Thanks man, I do appreciate the support! Your "personal use" comment is a common one, so I added a pinned comment that you may find interesting. Its also why I've heard of "personal-use-only" builders being contacted by ZMAN as well. Go figure!? Thanks again!
How can I purchase you lures ? They look amazing !!! I don’t buy ZMan because of the pricing is way to high for me to buy and try it. I’m able to lose anything I put in the water. It’s a fact , what you put in the water is like the trash. The only guarantee that you keep it is too hang it on the wall. Lol So , I’d love to try them for salmon and trout when our lakes thaw out and holds a boat in it. Thin ice this year of only 16”-24” of ice. I wonder how it would work jigging for lake trout. PB this year was only 12.5#@32.5” long lake trout. 😊
I have a website www.sdgcustomlurecraft.com. These Bladed Slayers are in such high demand, though, I had to add a Mailing List option to the website. You can join it and get notified when I drop the next batch!
Love the color shift colors. They never disappoint. Im surprised you can buy the blades if they own the patent on the shape. Anyway, I guess we will have to call you Outlaw Adam from now on. 😂
LOL, we'll see! The insulated portion used to sweat like mad when I had the garage door open... that uncovered section never had an issue. I appreciate the attention to detail though! Man after my own heart :)
FYI Berkley makes a Jerk Bait called the Flicker Minnow so beware! LOL I say you call it the Marty McFlicker and create a Back to the Future type packaging (I'm a graphic Designer and would help you do it), and be done with it. The name is catchy enough that that alone can likely get more people talking about it.
I can’t find any hooks with the eye the opposite way so I put a second split ring on it have you tried it let know thanks by the way I love your videos
Yup, find a flat eye hook this small is tough! The one I found has been discontinued but I was able to snag a couple thousand before they all disappeared! Two split rings will definitely work. You may get “fouled” more often and you’ll likely have to “pop” it to get it started, but it will work!
Enjoy your videos; your production efforts are notable and appreciated. Were the baits you molded on screen in this video still the Epic 3” Crappie Slayer…..they look bigger.
That looks like a crazy good drop shot bait too! I would throw that on a bladed too but I would also throw that monkey milk/black on a drop shot cuz those colors are freaking magical!! The profile is a perfect mix between a bait fish and I long tail kinda like a finesse worm. Keep it up!
I don't sell baits or lures only make them for myself, but I was making a musky size lure just like the chatterbait for a while. The blades I had would only hold up to one fish then be destroyed.
I'm a bit annoyed that there is even such a thing as originator and patent. I did buy some of the zman chatterbaits and redfish versions mid to late 2000s never did any good with any of them. And I had purchased the mostly because they were on clearance at Walmart and looked much like something I made in mid 1980s based on some musky / pike inline spinner types and spoons. Used spoons, downrigger flashers and some cheap metal blades to make my own inline spinners but also attached to jigs almost identical (different blade shape) to the zman. Also replaced the blades In spinner baits with other blade shapes purchased and made myself other than the willow and Colorado shapes.
Such is the business world I suppose! They've certainly done well selling on their own and selling the right of the patent to other large companies (like Strike King). Money talks!
I’m 66 years old and the first time I seen any kind of bladed jig bait I was about 8 or 9 years old. My uncle would take a metal pull tab off his beer can, take his pocket knife and knock a hole in each end and attach one of those old style swivels on each end, attach a jig, black are white worm or what ever and tie his line to the other swivel and catch fish. Bottom line is the ideal has been around way before any of you guys started building them and claiming owner ship. He also cut, treated and died pig belly skin and would fish them like a worm. FYI Uncle O built a lot of his on baits lol they looked crude but worked.
I understand the infringement on the patent but Berkleys slobberknocker is a direct connect to the head as well. Sad they are going for small businesses. You aren’t the only one that has been contacted. Great work though!!! Glad I came across you video.
Thanks for watching William! I could be wrong, but I think Berkley (and Strike King) licensed the use of the patent from ZMAN, allowing them to direct connect. It may even be in the fine print on the lure packaging. All the same, glad you found the channel, hope you enjoy the other content should you choose to check it out!
Hey, could you help me out? I need some advice. I am planning on getting a few of my favorite molds, and pooring for myself and maybe a few friends. Is there a bomb kit you could suggest? I am starting with nothing. Please help with: dual injectors, plastisol, colors, flake, glitter and translucent/color shift. I watch your channel and subscribe. But, I would have to go back through each video. Please help.
Happy to do what I can! It really depends on your budget. If you know you want specific equipment and quality materials, there's no "kit" that I'm aware of to cover that. There's an AI kit (not sure whats in it or if it even comes with an injector???) and Do-It MAY have a kit, I'm honestly not sure (but even if, while their stuff works its not the safest to use and the quality isn't what you'll get with another manufacturer). So... if it was me, and the funds were available... I'd buy a 6oz Dual from N2, a gallon a Medium blended 242 ultra clear low odor from BaitPlastics, the starter pack of pigments from Lureworks (plus any pearl powders that look interesting), a selection of basic flakes in 0.015 and 0.035 (also from Lureworks or Barlows), and if you want some colorshift on the less expensive side you can go with Barlow's colorshift powders and/or 8btbaits pixie dust (their Siren Scales are also more affordable and fantastic!). Beyond that... a dedicated microwave, pyrex, stirring utensils of choice, fans/mask for protection, IR gun to check heat, and of course your molds of choice. When done with quality stuff, and depending on the number of molds, you're looking at a grand pretty easily... but its money well-spent for an awesome hobby! Hope this helps!
I see that you sell lures on your website, so I respect your decision to not make a lure that resembles another manufacturer's product in appearance or description. I'm curious if they might believe that your work is better than theirs! 🧐 I make hard body lures as a hobby, and haven't delved into plastics thus far, so I haven't watched many of your videos. However, in the few I have seen, you make some killer lures!
Thank you much, that’s very kind! This was a business thing for sure, Zman holds their own when it comes to bait design and colors - some great stuff out there! All the same, I certainly appreciate the compliment!
Yup, talking with Barlow's Matt recommended looking at fly tying hooks as well. Fortunately I have a decent stock of the 32900s so I'm not hurting for a replacement... yet... but the day will come!
It seems like they were good enough to just say “stop doing that and get rid of it and we’ll call it’s all good.” I hope that’s how it went for everybody sake. If so, I’m really glad. And gives me respect for their company.
Yup, I appreciated the fact it was an email not a legal document from a lawyer. And I appreciated the fact he was open to an exchange of emails afterwards - he didn't have to do that. I still question the business side as I have to think they lose more money in time and resources dealing with each small maker individually than they save by making sure the same small guy does erode their sales... but that's their call to make. He assured me it was worth the time and effort (because I flat out asked him if it was! LOL)
The best way to get notified is to follow me on Instagram and turn on notification for my profile. You'll get a heads up when I post that a new batch is dropping. Thx!
Berkeley rips off every lure company, the turbo shrimp ripped off a tiny lure company in Australia, they got lawyers I guess..... big Guy vs small guy.... keep up the good work mate
Hey Adam I just subscribed to your channel, its my first time on your channel I love what your doing I wish I had the facility to to do the same yet unfortunately I don’t. I don’t know much about you and your channel yet but man you make some stuff ! I love your creations, crazy cool. Do you sell these creations to people asking as I’am now? If so I surely love that first one you made; trout color. Would I be able to buy from you and if so how do I go about that. Thanks much.
Welcome to the community! These Bladed combos are super popular and go fast, but I’ll be making more! You can follow me on IG to see when I drop a new set. I sell through my website (link is in the video description). Thanks again man, hope you enjoy the rest of the channel!
Adam they R some great looking baits. On the patent and copyrights, Gary Yamamoto has a patent on the name Senko. I have 3 Senko worm molds 4,5 AND 6 and I understand I can't sell them under the Senko name!!
LOVE all the interaction in the comments and all the support for me, personally, as well as the basement builder community! For the record, I don't consider ZMAN an enemy, they have every right to defend their patents - no question at all. Whether its a good use of corporate time and money???... that's up to them to decide. There's also been a number of comments regarding "personal use" vs "selling". ZMAN gave me no caveat to the infringement - their instruction to me was to "destroy" the patented equipment. I believe they offered no caveat because of patent law 35 U.S.C. § 271, which states: Anyone who makes, uses, offers to sell, or sells any patented invention domestically, or imports a patented invention into the United States during the term of the patent, is infringing the patent. "Makes" and "uses" are included but separate from "offers to sell" or "sells"... legal opinion states that distinction covers personal make/use. Hope this helps!!
Very interesting. Thanks for doing the research.
I still don't see how a company can prevent someone from making something for their own personal use. That seems wrong to me.
It’s a tough one, I’ll give you that!
@@SDGCustomLurecraft Indeed
They do this as scare tactics. Patents are tricky but can be easily modified to where they don't own a patent on the modification. When you patent something it's specific unless you pay to patent every modification you can do which costs upwards in the millions when you patent all potential designs existing from an original design. Also most patents expire in like 7 years.
Do you sell any of these lures? Love the colors.
Yep Zman has a world wide patent on the chatterbait connection and blade. Here in Australia all of us were warned over this issue and yes many makers over here ceased making chatterbaits. So where there is a need to keep a good bait in your lineup. invention is the mother of neccessity. So what did i do i went this way Adam. I now flatten out a Colorado blade and drill my 2 tow holes in the middle of the blade. Now keeping the original hole in place i extended the neck wire and reattached my blade to it. Now i have copper gold silver blades as well as painted finishes. I called my baits "Jumping Jacks" after the landmines the Australian Army uses. Now i tie long rabbit fur zonkers in as a body and attach a rattle as well. Remember you only have to change things up by 15% to beat any design patent. I hope you guys find merit in my chatterbait design and corrections. I also must thank Z man for making me more creative in design of my products.
Sounds awesome man! Great work-around!
It's not really a worldwide patent. Evergreen Jackhammers are much cheaper in Japan because Zman isn't getting a cut. If you can find a Japanese retailer that'll ship to you, it's a lot cheaper to just import from Japan. A lot won't ship to you though because Zman has their patent trolls around.
Shimreels in Singapore sells Japanese lures to the internet angling public. I have ordered from them plenty of times and the best thing for you Stateside boys is they do all their pricing in U.S. dollars.
Nice build Adam. Since you are no longer able to use coffin style blade and no longer able to use the word “chatter”, I have decided that I should no longer use ANYTHING ZMan. You are Da Man!!!
Well I appreciate the support! At the end of the day, they were just exercising their rights, although I’m not sure it’s all that cost effective to go after little guys. I would think their time and money would be better spent elsewhere, but what can ya do!?
Don’t throw em away send them blades to me!!
@@timb426 if only! They are long since gone :) file 13 months ago.
@@SDGCustomLurecraftso Adam I know were you come from but there is alot of you could do to stand up for your self I think this little over reach on zman part yo be honest. I am like the other viewer will not be buying any thing from this because they had sue 2 other company when they should let it go
Yeah, tough spot for sure! I definitely didn’t want it to escalate - I was in no place to take them on, LOL!
Z-MAN has done this to every single company/bait maker for the direct blade to jig connection. It's one of the reasons I will not buy a single chatterbait that they make or buy their products. Not a fan of them having a monopoly on bladed jigs that have that direct connection.
On another note, those were so BEAUTIFUL laminates! Well done!
Thanks man! I'm glad they turned out nice!
WOW those colors are SICK my man!!!! Love them and very unique to what's out there! I want some! "Flicker" is a great alternative! Sounds more glamorous!
Thank ya sir, much appreciated!
The way that Blue comes through so sick 🔥🔥
Twas a winner!
That first color is incredible!! You should patent it before Zman does. We already know you are doing something right if you got their attention. LOL
Thanks man, glad ya dig it! Holoshift powder is pretty awesome stuff!
I started attaching bills to jig-heads back in about 1985. I submitted my idea to American Inventors corporation. They told me it would cost anywhere from 5 to 20k to do a patent search. Back then I was working for 3 35 an hour and was raising a family so I had a notary sign my drawings and description and left it alone. About 2 years later, Cabela's started offering what they called an oscillating jig head. It's a plastic bill that snaps onto jig heads. You have to position the bill upside down/ bill up, and it works great. I also put a small pen light in the butt of a translucent fishing pole and dipped the tip in glow in the dark. I've never made a dime but I had fun.
I'd love to see pictures.
Sounds pretty interesting! Thanks for the comment!
Adam, I love them all! They definitely look like some fish catchers for sure. You do an outstanding job my friend. Just keep doing your thing! I appreciate you and what you do!!
Thank ya much David!
Beautiful work my friend! Looks like some awesome Crappie “flicker” baits!😉🎣
Yes sir, crappie will certainly dig it!
LOVE the Ghost Trout! It's up there as one of my favorites!!! I wouldn't worry too much about Z-Man. They would need to prove in a court of law that your sales are causing them significant financial harm in order for anything bad to happen. Don't be afraid of nasty letters. Unless it is a cease and desist from a law firm you don't have anything to worry about. And seriously, the PRESIDENT of Z-Man doesn't have anything better to do than harass small bait makers? ROFL business must not be going very well for them HA HA HA.... Go run your business buddy!
Couldn’t believe it myself… his time has to be worth more than what it took to send and respond to my emails! Go figure… cost benefit analysis seems a little wonky, LOL! Water under the bridge at this point. Re: the Ghost Trout - ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC! Stellar color, especially with that Monkey Milk belly!
Thx man!!
You guys are absolutely right! I got a surprise 5g of Solar Sugar in the mail the other day 😁 going to play with that tonight.
@baitchuckin see you too if you're live later.
Great stuff guys. I'm blessed to have found this community.
Love it man!!
This is bad advice. They do not have to prove damages, only infringement on their likeness. Consult a lawyer.
@@bfstackledirect While I agree 100% to ALWAYS contact a lawyer, as I am not one myself, I do not believe this to be poor advice. I speak as someone who has been in multiple corporate lawsuits over patent infringements (On both sides) and I speak as someone who is on over 20 patents myself. Bose did a similar scare tactic a while back legally going after several companies supposedly infringing on their active noise cancelling patent. Turns out it was a big cash grab and most cases did not rule in their favor. But all it takes is one.
Any company can legally stop you from producing infringing product, that's not in question. What they can't do is outright sue you for lots of money. All they can sue for is damages lost by the sales of the infringing product and the "potential revenue" they would have gained if you had not infringed on their product and marketing. Z-Man is a multi-million dollar company and it would take A LOT of chatterbait sales by our good friend Adam here to put any kind of dent in that, and it would be very hard for them to prove any kind of significant damage to their revenue as a result of sales from a garage bait maker. Threatening letters from the president of a company are just that, threatening letters. Unless it's a legal and notarized cease and desist letter, Adam really doesn't need to do anything. That's the first step in a legal process to go after patent infringements. I should also note that if Z-Man were a public company, this could actually be used AGAINST the president as it's their Fiduciary Duty to focus on keeping the company profitable. Writing multiple emails to youtube baitmakers around the world is an absolute waste of time for a president of a multi-million dollar corporation and it is NOT a valuable use of time for the president of said corporation. This is what you hire legal teams for. If it was a real threat, the letters would be coming from the legal team, not the president directly. Pretty sure ANY corporate lawyer would highly encourage the president of a company to NOT CONTACT directly the person you're trying to sue in a court of law.
Again, I'm not a lawyer, but just speaking as someone who has been through the process before and in cases that involved large sums of money. Again I agree with you 100% confirm with your lawyer, because this is not legal advice..
My biggest takeaway from this was getting to see the new Barlow powder paint colors! I don't pour soft plastics but make a lot of bucktail jigs. Those new colors are something else. I order a lot of stuff from Barlow's so it is really cool to see some of the barlow products in action.
Top notch stuff, no doubt! Their Nova Stone line is absolutely fantastic!
Very nice Adam!! Love the colors! Thanks for taking the time to make the videos! Sorry about the z man issues!
My pleasure Bryan! It is what it is, just glad I found an alternative!
Suuuuuuper helpful video and patent discussion. I've been wanting to start making "bladed jigs" for a bit now, and was trying to sort it all out. Looks like flat eye jig connected with a split ring is the way to go. Thanks, and great work!
Glad you enjoyed it! Yeah, split ring connection is a must if you want to avoid the drama, and now we also know about the blade shape (but there's a lot of good alternatives out there, especially in the normal size). I hope it works out well for you!
Just found your channel. You're making something II have been wanting and trying to replicate for years. Can't wait for restock.
Thanks man! Hopefully restocking soon! The demand/interest has been a little overwhelming!
“The BAT SHIATTER bait”
Those soft plastics look amazing, I’d like to try those here in Ontario on the Great Lakes!!
Thank ya much! Smallies would, indeed, be all over em!
without a doubt @@SDGCustomLurecraft
These are so dope. I’m anxiously waiting for them to be available. Great job man! Thanks for continuing to make them!
Thank ya much! Hope to restock soon!
Are these still available? They look awesome.
I cannot believe what I just witnessed. You have the ability to make all your baits and create whatever you want. WOW!!!!! Do you uy the molds? I sub'd and this was just amazing......
Thank ya much, glad you enjoyed it! Yup, I bought all the molds (lead and soft plastics). Epic Bait Molds is best of the best for soft plastic molds - love em!
Seems ridiculous for them to be worried about a " basement bait maker" especially when there's only so many things one can do when making baits. That aside, awesome baits and color matching as always. Keep up the good work!
Thanks Michael! I do appreciate the support!
Well done ! the best I have seen you do , that first pour is beautiful and that is saying something as your work is already top notch .
Truly appreciated thank ya much!!
Sorry to hear about your talk with Z Man. I didn't know about the Blade design either. The Heads look good and the baits are fantastic!!! Great video as always.
Thanks Bill! Yup, live and learn! Glad I found an alternative 👍👍
"flicker minnow" **Berkley has entered the chat** You may want to re-re-workshop that name, sir, but that's an awesome little bait! I'd bet the gold/pearl and the blue back shad would smash some white bass 🎣
Thanks man! Yeah... already changed it again, LOL... I landed on "Bladed Slayer", which has a nice ring to it!
Need one of the flickers with a purple top and chartreuse belly with that same jig head you made for the last one. Would be killer looking and also killer at catching dandies!!
Purple/Chartreuse is a favorite combo for sure, especially with that head!
@@SDGCustomLurecraft definitely would like to get ahold of some of those! Let me know when you drop some. Love the content!
This is the best bait that I've seen. I've used Zman and personally didn't like their plastic bait as it sticks together, especially the tail part. Your jighead will also be good to make it weedless, just an option. Would love to buy from you.
Thanks man! Hope to restock the store soon!
You are still the wizard of the best color combos. Hope all is good with z- man. I'm looking forward to seeing these in action because these are going to have a lot of fast action. Be blessed. My friend.
Thank ya thank ya! They do indeed have quite the action… very aggressive hunting, back and forth… the tail just goes nuts, it’s really something!
Outstanding you are amazing!!! How can i purchase your product? When is the next production?
Glad you like em! My website link is in the video description. Jump on the Bait Drop Mailing List so you can get in on the next batch.
on Relapse Tackle's channel he drills out little holes to insert small neodymium magnets to keep and hold the hooks in place. so they don't fall out or reposition.
Great idea!
Zman wanted to bury you for using a coffin style😂You adjusted well.Like rocky you can do it.First color hypnosis was happening.Beautiful
Much appreciated! That Ghost Trout was a dandy, yes indeed!
really enjoying how advanced your episodes have gotten
Thank ya much!!
@SDGCustomLurecraft
That last bladed jig color combo with the purple colored jig head was hands down ONE SEXY LOOKING BAIT!!!
Keep up the awesome bait making!
-Tight Lines 🎣
Thanks man, I do appreciate it!!
Well now. What can I say. Those little morsels are gorgeous. Very nice work Adam 👏👏👏
Thanks Shawn! Appreciate it my friend!
Great videos, quick question. Where did you get the “blades”. Also what size are they?
Thx man! Found em on Amazon, size XS.
Well, all three laminates looked fantastic!...the lures by themselves are great baits, adding blade would be non-essential. ;)
BTW, when some specials hook type/make needed are not available, one could find a regular suitable hook and diy and add the required hook-eye form. There should be some videos on this procedure on youtube.
All the best
Thank ya much! Totally agree, these would fish well even without a blade!
I wonder how Strike King got away with the direct blade to head connection on their "Thunder Cricket" bladed jigs... I bet it has something to do with the size of the company and the size of their coffers.
I believe I heard they actually licensed the use of the patent from Zman.
First video of yours that I have seen. Awesome!! Are you marketing any of these laminates?
Thank ya much! Yup, I’ll be posting a restock soon. You can join my mailing list to get notified via my website. Thx again!
This stuff is sick!!! Great job, dude!
Thx man!!
Just a heads up, Pure Fishing (Berkley) does indeed have a trademark on Flicker Minnow. ;)
Yup, a few have mentioned that. Name is already changed (AGAIN! LOL).
Pretty shallow of that company going after the little guy on technicalities... I will be sharing this with everyone I know. Just sad
Appreciate the support! I try not to hold it against them... I mean, they do have a right to defend their patent, big or small infringers alike! I don't know if it makes business sense to spend the money going after basement builders, but that's their call!
I agree. They have every right to defend their patent. Us consumers also have every right to boycott big name companies that seem to have too much time on their hands... I know that I will never buy anything with that company name ever again... No loss to me. I can make whatever I want.
Thank you for all the great content you put out. Much appreciated here!
@@jonanderson8975 my pleasure man! Hope you catch a boatload on your own baits, no better feeling!
Amen!
Another great build. I know of a few folks that got emails and letters about bladed jigs they built. 🙄. I love that Monkey Milk on laminates. I only make for myself so you can send me them small blades and I won’t tell. 😂
It always amazes me how the angling AI molds open up and the sprue is gone. That's pretty amazing no wonder they charge so much for their molds they get rid of the sprue for you
I don't know about Angling AI as I don't own any, but I do like to clean up my whole work area, which includes the sprue, before I open my EPIC Bait Molds!
It’s only an issue if you sell them (or even give them away for free). If you make them for your own personal use there’s NOTHING Z-Man can do legally. I definitely wouldn’t throw anything away.
Many take this approach. I did a little extra research and pinned a comment you may find interesting. Thanks for the feedback!
Not for nothing man but if you're not selling them then there's no infringement. I hope by "throw away" all those other components you mean "put away" because you can still make them for personal use.
Also I think the SK Cricket or Slobberknocker technically doesn't attach to the head because of the design, they won in court, but it definitely connects to the head in function.
Keep at it brother, stand firm!
Thanks man, I do appreciate the support! Your "personal use" comment is a common one, so I added a pinned comment that you may find interesting. Its also why I've heard of "personal-use-only" builders being contacted by ZMAN as well. Go figure!? Thanks again!
Really good job with them colors too! I love that iridescence in my soft plastics
Thanks man! They all turned out awesome! Glad you liked em too!
Hopefully someone comes out with a good replacement hook so you can keep making these beauties!! Great video
I need to start looking! I have a good stock, but one day they will indeed run out!
What size spilt rings do you use for attachment?
Thats a size 1
Those are unbelievable!! Are they available to purchase?
Thanks! They will be, you can join the mailing list to be notified when they are available via my website.
Love those trailers can I buy just them??? Really like your creativity keep up the great vids.
Thank you much! Right now I only sell them as part of the combos. Thx again!
How can I purchase you lures ?
They look amazing !!!
I don’t buy ZMan because of the pricing is way to high for me to buy and try it.
I’m able to lose anything I put in the water. It’s a fact , what you put in the water is like the trash. The only guarantee that you keep it is too hang it on the wall. Lol
So , I’d love to try them for salmon and trout when our lakes thaw out and holds a boat in it.
Thin ice this year of only 16”-24” of ice.
I wonder how it would work jigging for lake trout.
PB this year was only 12.5#@32.5” long lake trout. 😊
Thanks man! I'm sure they would work well for a variety of fish! I have a website (link is in the video description) - working hard on a restock!
looks like it would be a better strolling bait without the blade. just jigs and plastics! i would totally buy it though!
Would definitely work that way too!
Where can one buy your baits? Especially the “Bladed “ jigs..
I have a website www.sdgcustomlurecraft.com. These Bladed Slayers are in such high demand, though, I had to add a Mailing List option to the website. You can join it and get notified when I drop the next batch!
Love the color shift colors. They never disappoint. Im surprised you can buy the blades if they own the patent on the shape. Anyway, I guess we will have to call you Outlaw Adam from now on. 😂
LOL! Indeed. I too had the same quandary, but I guess it’s an overseas thing. Who knows?!!
you sir are a craftsman! respect
Thank ya much man! Really appreciate it!
U gotta insulate the rest of that duct above the toolbox haha it’s killing me
LOL, we'll see! The insulated portion used to sweat like mad when I had the garage door open... that uncovered section never had an issue. I appreciate the attention to detail though! Man after my own heart :)
If only I could but some.... when will these be available on your website
Hopefully soon man! Making baits for the website is a side hustle, I make as much as I can when I can! Thanks for your patience!
That is soooo freaking sweet! I'm always impressed by your talent. Keep em' coming.
Thanks Mike, truly appreciated!
Do you sell just the plastic? The crappie slayer or whatever you called it? I’d love to have some of them!
I do sometimes, when l can - usually in a box set. Thx man!
Phenomenal looking jigs! I’d love to try a couple of these for big crappie!
They'll eat it for sure! Thanks man!
Awesome!
FYI Berkley makes a Jerk Bait called the Flicker Minnow so beware! LOL
I say you call it the Marty McFlicker and create a Back to the Future type packaging (I'm a graphic Designer and would help you do it), and be done with it.
The name is catchy enough that that alone can likely get more people talking about it.
Yeah, I heard after the video, so the name is already changed. Went with Bladed Slayer - I like it!
Omg that is an awesome color (gree pink blue monkeymilk) on that mini flutterbug,baby splatterbait, minni bizzybuzzer, great job bro!
Thx man!! 🤜🤛
I can’t find any hooks with the eye the opposite way so I put a second split ring on it have you tried it let know thanks by the way I love your videos
Yup, find a flat eye hook this small is tough! The one I found has been discontinued but I was able to snag a couple thousand before they all disappeared! Two split rings will definitely work. You may get “fouled” more often and you’ll likely have to “pop” it to get it started, but it will work!
I was all prepeared to got to the website and buy a few of those small bladed jigs, alas; all sold out. I'll check back. NIce vid.
Yeah, they don't last long. Huge demand so they fly off the shelf when I restock. Appreciate the interest!
Enjoy your videos; your production efforts are notable and appreciated. Were the baits you molded on screen in this video still the Epic 3” Crappie Slayer…..they look bigger.
Yup! Everything I made here was the 3” slayer! Appreciate the kind words as well!
Great looking “Bladed Flicker Minnow”! Green/Monkey Milk my favorite! Like the other colors, too!
Thanks man! That first one was a doozy!
I love the way the colors compliment one another
Thank ya much! I was happy with them as well!
That looks like a crazy good drop shot bait too! I would throw that on a bladed too but I would also throw that monkey milk/black on a drop shot cuz those colors are freaking magical!! The profile is a perfect mix between a bait fish and I long tail kinda like a finesse worm. Keep it up!
Amen man! I have some in my drop shot box as we speak!
I don't sell baits or lures only make them for myself, but I was making a musky size lure just like the chatterbait for a while. The blades I had would only hold up to one fish then be destroyed.
Muskie are ruthless, yes indeed!
I'm a bit annoyed that there is even such a thing as originator and patent. I did buy some of the zman chatterbaits and redfish versions mid to late 2000s never did any good with any of them. And I had purchased the mostly because they were on clearance at Walmart and looked much like something I made in mid 1980s based on some musky / pike inline spinner types and spoons. Used spoons, downrigger flashers and some cheap metal blades to make my own inline spinners but also attached to jigs almost identical (different blade shape) to the zman. Also replaced the blades In spinner baits with other blade shapes purchased and made myself other than the willow and Colorado shapes.
Such is the business world I suppose! They've certainly done well selling on their own and selling the right of the patent to other large companies (like Strike King). Money talks!
FYI Flicker Minnow is trademarked by Pure Fishing they have a crankbait called that.
Yup, a few have mentioned that. Name is already changed (AGAIN! LOL).
when does the patent end? I believe there is a time limit.
I’ve heard as early as this year.
I’m 66 years old and the first time I seen any kind of bladed jig bait I was about 8 or 9 years old. My uncle would take a metal pull tab off his beer can, take his pocket knife and knock a hole in each end and attach one of those old style swivels on each end, attach a jig, black are white worm or what ever and tie his line to the other swivel and catch fish. Bottom line is the ideal has been around way before any of you guys started building them and claiming owner ship. He also cut, treated and died pig belly skin and would fish them like a worm. FYI Uncle O built a lot of his on baits lol they looked crude but worked.
Good ideas never go out of style!
That bait looked so good I wanted to bite that hook.
LOL, thanks man!!
would you sponser anglers or do you have a site so that i could purchase some of your products. really like some of the colors you do
No sponsorships, but my website link is in the video description. Thx!
I understand the infringement on the patent but Berkleys slobberknocker is a direct connect to the head as well. Sad they are going for small businesses. You aren’t the only one that has been contacted. Great work though!!! Glad I came across you video.
Thanks for watching William! I could be wrong, but I think Berkley (and Strike King) licensed the use of the patent from ZMAN, allowing them to direct connect. It may even be in the fine print on the lure packaging. All the same, glad you found the channel, hope you enjoy the other content should you choose to check it out!
Awsome ❤wish I could get one.Sold out grats.I really enjoyed this.God given talent well used.
Thank you much! You can join the Mailing List to get notified when I drop the next batch - details for that are on my website!
Adam nice jig and color combos!! Any chance you got any of those 32900 hooks in size 1 or 1/0 you want to sell?
Not sure I have those sizes, I had a size smaller at one point but ran out. Fortunately I have a decent stock of what I need now!
Hey, could you help me out? I need some advice. I am planning on getting a few of my favorite molds, and pooring for myself and maybe a few friends. Is there a bomb kit you could suggest? I am starting with nothing. Please help with: dual injectors, plastisol, colors, flake, glitter and translucent/color shift. I watch your channel and subscribe. But, I would have to go back through each video. Please help.
Happy to do what I can! It really depends on your budget. If you know you want specific equipment and quality materials, there's no "kit" that I'm aware of to cover that. There's an AI kit (not sure whats in it or if it even comes with an injector???) and Do-It MAY have a kit, I'm honestly not sure (but even if, while their stuff works its not the safest to use and the quality isn't what you'll get with another manufacturer). So... if it was me, and the funds were available... I'd buy a 6oz Dual from N2, a gallon a Medium blended 242 ultra clear low odor from BaitPlastics, the starter pack of pigments from Lureworks (plus any pearl powders that look interesting), a selection of basic flakes in 0.015 and 0.035 (also from Lureworks or Barlows), and if you want some colorshift on the less expensive side you can go with Barlow's colorshift powders and/or 8btbaits pixie dust (their Siren Scales are also more affordable and fantastic!). Beyond that... a dedicated microwave, pyrex, stirring utensils of choice, fans/mask for protection, IR gun to check heat, and of course your molds of choice. When done with quality stuff, and depending on the number of molds, you're looking at a grand pretty easily... but its money well-spent for an awesome hobby! Hope this helps!
I would love to build my own micro vibrating jig combos with my 3" slayer mold. Can you point me towards the components list i need to buy?
I list all the components in the video description!
I see that you sell lures on your website, so I respect your decision to not make a lure that resembles another manufacturer's product in appearance or description. I'm curious if they might believe that your work is better than theirs! 🧐 I make hard body lures as a hobby, and haven't delved into plastics thus far, so I haven't watched many of your videos. However, in the few I have seen, you make some killer lures!
Thank you much, that’s very kind! This was a business thing for sure, Zman holds their own when it comes to bait design and colors - some great stuff out there! All the same, I certainly appreciate the compliment!
Can you use the silk pearl powder as a dye for dipping your tails in? Or where you can buy a liquid version for this?
I think if you dip it it’s not going to hold. Spike-It makes some dips and pens to color tips, etc. I’d check there for a white one!
Ty
Not sure what size hook you are using. How about the Mustad 9671 fly tying hook?
Yup, talking with Barlow's Matt recommended looking at fly tying hooks as well. Fortunately I have a decent stock of the 32900s so I'm not hurting for a replacement... yet... but the day will come!
I’m all about the smaller sizes of the flicker lure. Smallmouth killer around me.
Yes sir! I'm sure the smallies will smash this guy!
It seems like they were good enough to just say “stop doing that and get rid of it and we’ll call it’s all good.” I hope that’s how it went for everybody sake. If so, I’m really glad. And gives me respect for their company.
Yup, I appreciated the fact it was an email not a legal document from a lawyer. And I appreciated the fact he was open to an exchange of emails afterwards - he didn't have to do that. I still question the business side as I have to think they lose more money in time and resources dealing with each small maker individually than they save by making sure the same small guy does erode their sales... but that's their call to make. He assured me it was worth the time and effort (because I flat out asked him if it was! LOL)
I've seen and bought bladed jigs with split ring connections from Tackle Warehouse that weren't z-man branded.
Yup, there's a bunch of makers out there!
holy moly, this guy is the Leonardo da Vinci of lure making.
Wow, high praise - thanks man! Glad you liked em!
Saw on ur website that these are sold out - do you send out notifications when they are back in stock or do I have to periodically check your page
The best way to get notified is to follow me on Instagram and turn on notification for my profile. You'll get a heads up when I post that a new batch is dropping. Thx!
@@SDGCustomLurecraft That may be tough, since I don't have an Instagram account 😁
@@billkennedy401 ah, yeah I guess you can peek in at the store from time to time then!
I just found your site. Three bladed baits look great. I do want to try them. Any ideas of when they might be available?
New shipment of blades is on the way - hopefully soon! Best to follow me on Instagram as I'll post there when I make the next drop. Thx!
Hey good morning well looks like cannot build this cool lure due to the hooks are unavailable and no alternates! Ugh
True, the hook is discontinued. I was fortunate enough to snag a couple bags before they completely disappeared.
Absolutely beautiful bait how and where do I get my hands on some of these
Store link is in the video description. Hope to restock soon!
Hi. When will you do more or restock these [Bladed Slayer Combos] ? Do you also have a newsletter that I can sign up and subscribe?
No newsletter, but you can follow me on Instagram and turn on notifications for my profile. I post there when a new drop happens. Thx!!
Berkeley rips off every lure company, the turbo shrimp ripped off a tiny lure company in Australia, they got lawyers I guess..... big Guy vs small guy.... keep up the good work mate
We’ll keep pluggin’ along! Thx ya my friend!
Ok, haven't even finished watching the video and I want to give you my money. Those look pretty damned nice.
LOL, thanks man! Glad you dig em! Hope to make more soon, just waiting on more blades!
Hey Adam I just subscribed to your channel, its my first time on your channel I love what your doing I wish I had the facility to to do the same yet unfortunately I don’t. I don’t know much about you and your channel yet but man you make some stuff ! I love your creations, crazy cool. Do you sell these creations to people asking as I’am now? If so I surely love that first one you made; trout color. Would I be able to buy from you and if so how do I go about that. Thanks much.
Welcome to the community! These Bladed combos are super popular and go fast, but I’ll be making more! You can follow me on IG to see when I drop a new set. I sell through my website (link is in the video description). Thanks again man, hope you enjoy the rest of the channel!
They r pretty cool Adam, now can u make them in paddle tails, 3 and 4 in. I would love to try them on walleyes
Thanks Patrick! Anything’s possible!
wow, you are the lure wizard! well done! love the video!
Thank ya much!
Great colors, Adam. You are the Czar of exotic colors.
LOL, "Czar"! Been on YT for years now and have never been called a Czar - bucket list item checked off there, thanks Guy!
That's just incredible.
Thanks man! Glad you dig it!
Looks like you are sold out congrats!! Really nice bait. Let us know when they will be available again! Thanks
Thanks! Yeah, they went fast. Best to follow me on Instagram - I post there when I drop a new batch!
“Flicker minnow” about to get scolded by berkley for that name lol. Beautiful bait!
Yup, a few have mentioned that. Name is already changed (AGAIN! LOL). Thx!
Just found your site yesterday already liked and subscribed. When will you have more Bladed Flicker Minnow Combos?
Thanks man, welcome to the community! Yup, I’ll be posting more as soon as my next shipment of blades arrives. Thx!!
Amazing..... need both now 🔥
Glad ya dig em!
Adam they R some great looking baits. On the patent and copyrights, Gary Yamamoto has a patent on the name Senko. I have 3 Senko worm molds 4,5 AND 6 and I understand I can't sell them under the Senko name!!
Thank ya much! Yeah, we can't use "Senko" - most go with "stickbait" :)